Limerick laid down an early marker in the National Hurling League with an emphatic 0-36 to 0-21 victory over All-Ireland champions Tipperary in Thurles, but one positional debate continues to follow John Kiely’s side.

Since the retirement of long-time captain Declan Hannon, Limerick have been searching for a settled option at centre-back. Kyle Hayes has previously been trialled there, while William O’Donoghue has filled the role in recent outings after previously being a mainstay at midfield.

Speaking on GAA+ analysis show The View, former Limerick forward Séamus Flanagan offered his personal take on the discussion, and admitted he would like to see a different option tried.

Séamus Flanagan Names Unexpected Pick For Limerick’s Centre Back Role

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Flanagan, who stepped away from the panel over the winter after winning five All-Ireland titles, five Munster medals and an All-Star, acknowledged O’Donoghue’s recent performances but questioned whether Limerick’s defence needs such a protective presence.

Will definitely had a quality game the last two games, he’s played well.

But Will’s type of game is very much sitting in front of that full-back line and protecting them, and he does that brilliantly.

However, Séamus Flanagan pointed to the strength already present in Limerick’s defensive unit.

You have the likes of Mike Casey, Dan Morrissey, Seán Finn and Barry Nash… all top, top defenders. So does that full-back line require the protection that they’ve been getting? I don’t think it does.

Instead, Séamus Flanagan believes Cathal O’Neill could bring a different dynamic to the position for Limerick, particularly from an attacking perspective.

I’d love to see Cathal O’Neill inside there. His attacking prowess, he knows as a forward how he’d like his ball delivered in. I think the full-forward line would get ample ball inside.

He suggested O’Neill’s natural instincts could help Limerick transition play quicker, contrasting with the more defensive balance provided by O’Donoghue.

With Will playing there, it’s quite a defensive-minded six. I think with Cathal playing there, it’s maybe a more attacking-minded six.

Despite his view, Flanagan stressed O’Donoghue has performed strongly, but raised the question of whether upcoming fixtures could provide an opportunity for Limerick to experiment further.

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